Special Education Advocate

Belkowitz Law, PLLC is a growing firm of highly motivated individuals who genuinely care about making a profound and positive impact on public education. We are looking to hire a Special Education Advocate. The position will be based in the firm’s Fairfax office with opportunities to work remotely.

The Special Education Advocate will work with the families of children with disabilities to address their rights to a free appropriate public education (“FAPE”) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, among other laws. We are looking for a creative thinker and compassionate person. Special Education Advocate experience is preferred, although will consider other professional or life experience for the right candidate with a demonstrated commitment to becoming a Special Education Advocate. The ideal candidate is a bright, motivated, innovative individual who thrives in a team-oriented and fast-paced environment. Strong analysis and advocacy skills are a must. Master's degree or higher preferred.

The firm offers competitive benefits, including vacation leave, health insurance, and SEP-IRA. Salary commensurate with experience. Please submit a cover letter and resume (both are required - attention to detail is important; we will not consider an applicant who does not follow this simple request). If your qualifications and commitment to be a Special Education Advocate are not readily apparent from your resume, it is essential that you explain in the cover letter why you are the right candidate.

Job Description: Assist families of students with special needs in navigating the special education process and facilitating the students’ receipt of a free appropriate public education. Responsibilities include:

• Accompany parents to, and participate in initial screening, eligibility, IEP, Section 504, and other school meetings and provide advice and assistance as needed throughout the IEP process.
• Review all special education and section 504 documents, including student files, assessment reports, IEPs and Section 504 Plans.
• Identify and propose IEP goals and objectives, review supportive evidence and materials, help put concerns and requests in writing, and provide strategies for the IEP meeting.
• Review student educational records, assessments, and service provider reports
• Explain to parents the meaning of educational assessments, evaluations, and reports regarding the student’s individualized special education needs.
• Identify appropriate special education services, programs, accommodations, and modifications appropriate to meet the student’s individual needs.
• Review IEP and other educational documents before parent signs them.
• Draft letters and written requests to school and district personnel and draft complaints to school districts and the Virginia Department of Education.
• Empower, inform, guide and educate parents/guardians and students to strengthen their own advocacy skills.

In addition, there may be other projects (e.g., giving presentations) associated with your position that will require your attention from time to time.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

• Did you attach a separate cover letter? We will not consider applications that do not include a cover letter and a resume.

Education:

• Master's (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Fairfax, VA 22030

Salary : $25 - $35